Monday November 22nd Regular Town council meeting

Well Monday night was the very first time that residents were allowed to go into town hall to watch the public council meeting. I had decided to attend in person however, life gets in the way sometimes and Monday night was pretty hectic for me. So I decided to watch from home, since I wasn’t sure I could get there in time. The meeting lasted about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Once again, I’m writing this blog on Tuesday evening instead of Monday night right after the meeting. Sometimes I’m surprised I used to do it all in one night! I honestly don’t remember how I did it, but I guess I did! Oh well, I put it off until tomorrow, which is now today. (Tuesday) 

I am going to try to write up the blog in a bit of a different way tonight. I’m going to try to go a little more “big picture” than get into the nitty gritty. Why? Because that’s exactly what council should be doing! So why not lead by example? LOL

PRESENTATIONS

Regional Food, Organic and Biosolids Waste Processing – Michelle Bishop, Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority

Ms Bishop presented to council regarding a food and organic waste program. It seems that there is legislation that has been put into place with a target date of 2025 to have an organic waste system up and running. Amherstburg (along with a few other surrounding municipalities) must participate not only due to our population but also due to the density of our population. Ms Bishop went through her presentation with the data and the reasons for the necessity of such a program. Unfortunately, true cost projections won’t be available until they know exactly which municipalities will be participating. Basically, Ms Bishop needed to know if Amherstburg would be joining the regional plan or if we would do this on our own. (What? The horror! Council would have to make a decision about this. And on the spot! Even though the decision that needed to be made was painfully obvious…..the questions started rolling…..)

Deputy Mayor Meloche felt that the costs would be in the $100 Million to $200 Million range. Ms Bishop concurred. 

Councillor Prue had a lengthy discussion with Ms Bishop about capturing gas. (I actually didn’t take a lot of notes here……To me, it was painfully obvious that we need to participate in an organic waste program, not only due to legislation but from a moral and ethical perspective…..what’s the alternative? Let our kids and grandchildren deal with our mess?…..so note-taking about gas and smells seemed kind of useless to me…..the BIG PICTURE here was that it was obvious we need to participate and do the right thing…..but I had to sit through talking about methane gas and flaring etc etc etc…..)

So after more back and forth with questions (maybe it’s a way to try to appear smart? I don’t know….) there was finally a motion made and council decided to participate in the program in a regional approach format. The motion carried. 

(I am kind of liking this new big picture blogging…..just sayin’ )

DELEGATIONS

Notice of Objection to the Intent to Designate 275-277 Bathurst Street – Joe Shaw

Mr Shaw was up next since he had had some technical difficulties at the beginning of the meeting. He said that he had sent the information to council that they had requested at the last meeting. Mr Shaw said that the estimates to do the work were over half a million dollars which is more than the property is worth. (In this market, that could be debated LOL)  He said that he was not against heritage and that he owns a few heritage properties. He mentioned that nobody from the Heritage Committee had contacted him to look at the house, nor the inside of it. He felt that the Committee did not understand the structural problems and the expenses involved with the building. He felt that his personal options were being taken away. He felt that if the Committee felt it was worth saving that the town could buy the house or they could have it for free and pick it up and move it. He hoped that council would reconsider the designation for the house. 

Deputy Mayor Meloche felt that the estimates provided were mostly for renovations, such as flooring, trim, cupboards etc which are normal renovations that homes go through every so often. He did not feel that any of the items were necessarily structural issues. 

Councillor Prue began to cite page numbers from the report. He also felt that the estimates were for typical renovation work and not structural in nature. Mr Robertson, the Heritage Planner spoke and said that the estimate for the foundation was $7,000 and was more cosmetic than structural. He pointed out that most heritage buildings require work. He felt that chipping away and not designating the house could jeopardize a heritage district. Councillor Prue seemed to agree with that. 

Councillor Courtney did agree that most of the work seemed to be renovations. He wondered about the preservation of history but at what cost. He felt that these homes weren’t flagged until the homeowners put in requests to demolish them. He also wondered what happened if homeowners did not fix the house, that there’s nothing anywhere saying they have to fix it. 

Mr Robertson said that there are property standards bylaws. Councillor Courtney cited the property at 109 Park Street that the Chief Building Official had recommended demolition yet the provincial tribunal saved the property and wanted it designated as Heritage. 

There was discussion about possibly getting a structural engineer to look at the property. 

Finally, Councillor Renaud made a motion to table the agenda item to allow time for Mr Shaw to get a structural engineer to look at the property. Mr Robertson said that council had until January 20th to decide on this issue. Mr Shaw felt that that would be enough time for him to get a structural engineer in to take a look. Councillor Renaud made the motion to table this item until the January 10th meeting  in order to allow Mr Shaw to get a structural engineer to inspect the property. Mr Robertson felt that the motion should include language that the engineer be required to have proven conservancy/heritage experience…..

It was now 7:23 in my notes…..almost an hour and a half and council was still on the second delegation of the night…..

Councillor Courtney felt that an engineer is an engineer and that council should not start questioning credentials……(LOL! How convenient to not question credentials when it seems to suit his position! I heard him question Mr Robertson’s credentials – among others- in public meetings…..how convenient…..or would that be hypocritical? I’m not sure…..)

Councillor McArthur felt that the motion was trying to engineer the outcome. (And yes, he asked to pardon the pun LOL, it’s not mine, it’s his.) He felt that the home is in an historic area and that Mr Shaw could spend the money on an engineer and that council could still pull the rug out and designate the house.

Councillor Renaud’s motion went to a vote. It failed 4-2……Only Councillors Renaud and Courtney voted in favour…..Deputy Mayor Meloche, Councillors Prue, Simone and McArthur voted against…..

Then Councillor Simone made the motion with the recommendation to designate the property and it passed 4-2…..with the same 4 above voting in favour this time and the same 2 above voting in opposition to this motion. 

Open Air Weekends 2021 Post Report

The final report about Open Air weekends was in front of council for their consideration. 

Here were the recommendations : 

It is recommended that: 

1. The report from the Manager of Tourism and Culture dated October 29, 2021 titled Open Air Weekends 2021 Post Report be RECEIVED;

2. Council APPROVE the 2022 Open Air Weekends plan and logistics as listed below in principle: 

• The hours of operation and the operational footprint for Open Air Weekends 2022 attached under ‘Appendix D’; 
• An exemption for permits and road closures; 
• A Noise By-Law exemption as long as the noise generated from Open Air Weekends 2022 remain at a noise level below 60dba; 
• An exemption for Section 3 of the Kings Navy Yard Park By-law #2004-89 to allow for the Open Air Weekends 2022 in Kings Navy Yard Park; and

3. That consideration of funding for the 2022 Open Air Weekends initiative BE DEFERRED to 2022 Operating Budget deliberations.

Deputy Mayor Meloche questioned the map and why a portion of Dalhousie Street would now be open to traffic. He wondered if it was to satisfy a few businesses. (I had included the new footprint with the map in my pre-meeting blog if you didn’t see it.)

Ms Rota, Manager of Tourism, said that the new map makes sense for safety. She also said that with the fencing and the open/close, then open again/close again of this past year that this had made it very difficult. She said at times the crowds were heavy and that the reason for the new footprint is for safety, so that there aren’t pedestrians on half of the street, while the other half is open to traffic. She felt that the new footprint would also help them to better organize the programming and activities. 

Councillor McArthur said that he had implored administration to accept the new footprint that was being proposed. He felt that by decreasing the footprint, it allows for intensification of the event. He felt that this compromise still preserves the heart of open air. (Just remember the “heart” reference here…..it’s going to come back…..)

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor asked about how cars would get turned around on Dalhousie Street and the fire Chief spoke to that. 

Then, Councillor Prue started citing page numbers from the report over and over again and asking all kinds of questions. (Three pages worth according to my notes….) He asked questions about the costs and the money (even though it was clear that that portion would be debated at budget time). He asked about the area behind the post office and how cars would get through. He asked about adding days for long weekends, he asked about any monetary contributions from the businesses…..He felt he was asking the “difficult” questions…..but spoiler alert people…..ultimately Councillor Prue voted for Open Air…..so I guess the questions don’t much matter, but the vote does! 

Ms Rota pointed out that the town does not have a BIA and that the businesses would need to get together to form one. CAO Haddad also spoke about the town lacking a BIA and with the absence of such an organization, the expenses are borne by all businesses and taxpayers. (The BIA issue has been brought up more times than I can count since I’ve been watching……the businesses…..or at least the majority of the businesses aren’t interested from what I’ve ever seen or heard…..they don’t want to pay into the pot and pay an additional tax…..)

Councillor Simone wondered if grants may be available. As well, she noted that 21 surveys were completed and returned. Ms Rota said that the survey was sent to the entire distribution list and was sent to everyone but that only 21 responded. 

Deputy Mayor Meloche felt that Open Air had to be consistent to drive tourism and for marketing. He felt that once a month would not be adequate. He wanted to see Open Air grow, not shrink. 

Councillor McArthur felt that the CAO had hit the nail on the head. The town does not have a BIA and council could dither about that and discuss it but it doesn’t change the fact that there is no BIA. (Right?! Why go on and on about a BIA that does not exist…..?) Councillor McArthur felt that ultimately Open Air benefits the entire town, it creates jobs, gives us something to celebrate and that next year when the hotel gets going, it will help it grow even more. He felt that Open Air had had some growing pains but that adjustments were made. He talked about Open Air costing money, arenas costing money, parks costing money but all of those things contribute to the public good. (I think I was smiling ear to ear at this point….and couldn’t write it all down fast enough!). Councillor McArthur wanted to make it constant and make it permanent! 

Councillor Renaud also supported Open Air. He wanted to see a slight change to the wording regarding the sound limits and expressed his agreement with the new footprint. 

And then Councillor Courtney spoke…..and spoke….and spoke….(5 pages worth of speaking…..) get ready…..and I’m going into detail here…..

Councillor Courtney started out by saying he likes to talk and that he’s very opinionated. He felt that Open Air has been very controversial and contentious. He felt that Open Air was created to help businesses through the pandemic. He felt that Open Air was not a special event and that it really isn’t “special”. He felt that River Lights and The Uncommon Festival were the only weekends that were awesome. Councillor Courtney did feel that Open Air created hype for year one but that the novelty wore off for year two. He felt that it had simply become about having a burger or a beer in the street. (Oh my…..that comment alone screamed that it was said by someone who did not attend Open Air! Open Air is about so much more than having a burger or a beer in the street! It’s about community. It’s about togetherness. It’s about inclusivity. It’s about fun. It’s about walkability. It’s about family and friends…..In fact when the Who’s down in Whoville wanted to make Christmas celebrations bigger and brighter, the Grinch tried to stop Christmas from coming! And the Grinch learned that Christmas is about “more” than presents, food, decorations and money. Well, Open Air is about A LOT more than a burger or a beer in the street!)

Councillor Courtney asked Ms Rota if it were true that only 21 businesses responded to the survey since the turnaround time was less than 48 hours to fill out the survey. Ms Rota said that all of the businesses knew the survey was coming and that they had 4 or 5 full days to fill it out. 

Councillor Courtney then said that Open Air was for the culinary businesses. He did not feel that the BookStore needed Open Air, that the banks needed Open Air or that clothing stores needed Open Air.  He felt that council was being asked to help some and hurt others…..(um…..it’s been three years and he hasn’t yet realized that every decision they make is for the betterment of some and to the detriment of others? BIG PICTURE time! Decisions need to be made based on the big picture and for the town as a whole…..) 

Ms Rota explained that it may appear that 4 or 5 restaurants are benefitting but that council must look at the bigger picture….people picnicking in the park, making purchases, performers and musicians were hired etc. She reminded council that for that night, the recommendation was simply to approve the footprint and that later the budget portion would be debated. She felt that the event would likely be cost neutral next year and that grants were available. 

Ms Baillargeon, Director of Parks and Culture explained that Open Air is more than an event, it’s an initiative. (Could Ms Baillargeon make Councillor Courtney’s heart grow two sizes bigger at this meeting?)

Didn’t seem so. Councillor Courtney went on and on about investing in tourism and he felt that council may be crossing that line and that he hoped they wouldn’t get sued if businesses are losing money. (Yes, seriously. He said that…..) He felt that the number one concern should be the business owners. (And once again BIG PICTURE! Open Air is NOT all about the business owners….I spend a lot of money at those businesses, gladly! Open Air is about ALL OF US! It’s about the residents, the tourists and the business owners. The business owners do not own our downtown, it belongs to all of us. Every single one of us that pays taxes in Amherstburg owns a piece of our downtown and our streets.)

Councillor Courtney felt that streets are for cars, sidewalks are for pedestrians and the parks are to play in. I guess,in a very narrow scope type of way of looking at things, he may have a point…..but there’s a much bigger picture at play….The BIG picture! 

Finally, Councillor McArthur made the motion to approve the Open Air plan for 2022 in principle. Councillor Prue asked to extend it for one more week in September in order to allow the involvement of the aboriginal peoples to celebrate the September 30th holiday. (The National Day of Truth and Reconciliation) 

So the motion was read, some slight amendments were made for sound and to extend Open Air for one extra weekend in September. It went to a recorded vote (I love those)

Support : Councillor McArthur, Councillor Prue, Councillor Renaud, Councillor Simone, Deputy Mayor Meloche and Mayor DiCarlo

Opposed : Councillor Courtney

So, all the Who’s in Whoville will have Christmas! And the people of Amherstburg will have Open Air! Because, yes, it really does mean a little bit more……

The rest of the meeting carried on….it was already well after 8:00 by now. 

Unfinished Business

Thankfully, council quietly moved past the unfinished business list, since, well, there’s been a lot of turnover in senior management in the past 4 months…..I can’t even keep track….

New Business

Deputy Mayor Meloche commended town staff for their hard work on River Lights. 

Councillor Prue asked about some no parking signs installed somewhere on Front Road South. 

Councillor Courtney wanted to ask about the BIA…..he asked if they could go back to Unfinished business…..The Mayor said his request was noted and that the report is being worked on…..(Big picture…..budget is coming in less than 2 months…..with very little staff in town hall…..but let’s beat that dead horse BIA issue that’s been brought up a thousand times…..)

Councillor McArthur asked when the report would be ready about the Community Hub. He was advised it would be for the next meeting but may be done in several different reports. 

Notice of Motion

Councillor Courtney said that council had a hard copy of a motion that he would be presenting at the next meeting. It seems it’s in regards to KPMG coming in to audit some of the controls in town hall. He thanked the CAO and the Clerk for helping him to script the motion. Councillor Courtney said that it would be on the next meeting agenda for council to debate. 

After that, council passed some by-laws and the meeting adjourned at 8:53 PM. 

Basically the meeting lasted almost 3 hours and 3 items ate up the bulk of it…..the organic waste item, the heritage designation for the house on Bathurst Street and Open Air Weekends. 

I find it interesting and a little bit sad that Open Air had to be defended and debated at such length. Other communities are trying to emulate Amhersrtburg to create their own Open Air. Some municipalities are buying up (and even expropriating) property to try to create their own version of the Kings Navy Yard Park and our beautiful downtown core. Here, we have the gift sitting right in front of us! I am happy that so many of us can see it and appreciate it and want to share it with everyone! Because ultimately Open Air is about so, so much more……Downtown Amherstburg is our “heart”! We should celebrate it as often as we can! 

See you after the December meeting folks! 

In preparation for Monday November 22nd Regular Town council meeting

Well Monday night’s meeting will be the first open to the public council meeting since March 2020. Almost two whole years! Hard to believe how time flies. I’m still debating if I should attend in person (for old times sake LOL) or if I should continue to enjoy the comfort of my own home….my safe place for when my inner voice expresses herself out loud……on the other hand, I miss seeing the body language and the looks around the table…..decisions, decision….I’ll still have a few days to think about it. 

Anyway, the agenda is a light 194 pages, so that should wrap up by 8:00 right? LOL Here are the highlights : 

DELEGATIONS

Notice of Objection to the Intent to Designate 275-277 Bathurst Street – Joe Shaw

A month or two ago, Mr Shaw had delegated to council objecting to a heritage designation for his property at 275-277 Bathurst Street. At the time, if I recall, council had moved forward with the designation, allowing Mr Shaw to proceed with a formal objection. Well, Monday night is the night! Mr Shaw is delegating to council about this. For some reason, there really doesn’t seem to be any information in the delegation forms. I’ll have to listen closely to see what’s going on. I did notice that the actual designation item is further down on the agenda. 

PRESENTATIONS

Regional Food, Organic and Biosolids Waste Processing – Michelle Bishop, Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority

It looks like there is some provincial legislation that requires some municipalities in Windsor-Essex to achieve specific reduction or recovery target rates for waste by 2025. And lucky Amherstburg, we’re one of them! It looks like there will need to be collection provided (possibly through a public drop-off depot, or a community composting area, or through curbside collection) of food and organic waste for the single family dwellings to achieve a rate reduction of 50% less waste. 

The presentation looks actually quite interesting with various methods for composting to achieve the targeted reduction. There is a table with the potential costs over the next 10 years or so as well. For those who are interested, here’s the link to the presentation : https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=4787

Open Air Weekends 2021 Post Report

Well, it’s finally here! If you remember, there were two delegations about a month ago with opposing views about Open Air Weekends. I’m going to be up front and forthcoming right now…..I LOVE Open Air Weekends. Call me biased, call me smart, whatever you’d like, it is a fantastic event that has showcased our beautiful downtown and has created a sense of community and a safe gathering place. Anyway, enough about me and my thoughts (for now anyway)…..

It seems that the town has surveyed the business owners and has a few changes and recommendations for next year’s Open Air event (pending that council approves it…..which they had better!!!). The report is chock full of data with attendance numbers, survey responses and tons of information….which all points to Open Air having been a success and a positive for many of the businesses. It was even more so a success and a positive experience for the residents and the visitors of our beautiful town! 

After some complaints and concerns this past spring from a few local businesses, council did some tweaking to the event. The footprint was modified slightly and the hours were changed. This past summer, the streets were open to traffic all day on Saturday until around 3:00. This involved setting up Friday night and then taking it all down again Friday night. And then setting everything up again Saturday night and taking it all down Sunday night. This proved to be pretty labour intensive for everyone. The recommendation for next year is to return to an all weekend event (like in 2020), with set up Friday night and take down Sunday night. However, the footprint has a pretty big recommended change, more so than last time. 

Here’s the recommendations for council : 

It is recommended that: 

1. The report from the Manager of Tourism and Culture dated October 29, 2021 titled Open Air Weekends 2021 Post Report be RECEIVED;

2. Council APPROVE the 2022 Open Air Weekends plan and logistics as listed below in principle: 

• The hours of operation and the operational footprint for Open Air Weekends 2022 attached under ‘Appendix D’; 
• An exemption for permits and road closures; 
• A Noise By-Law exemption as long as the noise generated from Open Air Weekends 2022 remain at a noise level below 60dba; 
• An exemption for Section 3 of the Kings Navy Yard Park By-law #2004-89 to allow for the Open Air Weekends 2022 in Kings Navy Yard Park; and

3. That consideration of funding for the 2022 Open Air Weekends initiative BE DEFERRED to 2022 Operating Budget deliberations.

So any money regarding Open Air won’t be discussed Monday night. It will be discussed at the budget deliberations in January. Well, that’s if council can stay on point and on topic…..

Here’s the proposed new foot print with the new proposed hours: 

I’ll be all ears Monday night to see what council has to say! I’m sure I won’t be the only one. 

Duff Avenue Storm Sewer Outfall Emergency Repairs 

It seems that a large sinkhole has formed on the banks of the Detroit River west of Sandwich Street North near Duff Avenue. It seems that there is a failed storm sewer nearby that has caused this sinkhole. From the report : “There are numerous services and utilities under Sandwich Street North that could be impacted by the further failure of the brick sewer. Most importantly, there is a 300mm (12”) water main and sanitary sewer in close proximity to the sinkhole and failure. Inaction would cause the sinkhole to enlarge further, potentially compromising the water main and sanitary sewer as well as further damaging the private property and creating a very dangerous hazard.” 

Here’s the recommendation : 

It is recommended that:

1. An expenditure not to exceed $300,000 for the replacement of the outlet portion of the Duff Avenue Storm Outfall, BE APPROVED; and, 

2. The Treasurer BE AUTHORIZED to transfer up to $300,000 from the Reserve Fund – General to fund the unbudgeted project. 

Heritage Designation of 109 Park Street

This property is before council to get a heritage designation. The owners had wanted to demolish the property a few years ago and I believe they have contested council’s decision. But it looks like it’s going to get designated Monday night. 

Heritage Designation of 275-277 Bathurst Street

This is the item for Mr Shaw’s delegation at the beginning of the meeting. This should be an interesting debate. 

Adoption of the 2022 Calendar of Council Meetings

This is pretty standard procedure. Council will adopt their schedule of meetings for the 2022 calendar year. Since there will be an election in October 2022, the new council will debate and pass a budget sometime in 2023. 

OTHER MINUTES

Heritage Committee Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2021

The Heritage Committee has some recommendations for council. It seems that they want to meet with the school board regarding the current General Amherst High School property regarding its heritage value. Here are the recommendations: 

It is recommended that:

1.  The Heritage Committee Meeting Minutes of October 14, 2021 BE RECEIVED;
2. The Greater Essex County District School Board BE INVITED to a future meeting of the Heritage Committee to discuss the General Amherst High School property for its heritage value; and, 
3. Administration BE DIRECTED to initiate the study and documentation of General Amherst High School for potential placement on the Heritage Register and for future consideration of heritage designation. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

So, the town just lost three more senior staff members. Here’s an article for more information if you haven’t already seen it : https://www.iheartradio.ca/am800/news/more-senior-staff-resignations-announced-at-the-town-of-amherstburg-1.16510785?fbclid=IwAR1C0Qirp0rQJDQtEjstDxpnhK90rZxNcK9C8_UqWHkbsPupWaKhw5m-88E

It looks like Rob Sassine, the Manager of Bylaw and Licensing along with Interim Treasurer Mark Spizzirri have resigned. I think Mr Spizzirri was only there for one meeting. That may be some kind of record. Anyway, a fair chunk of the unfinished business reports were assigned to Mr Sassine…..so if anyone from council even asks about the unfinished list…..I’m not sure if I will laugh or cry. Seriously. The staff turnover is staggering and must be really hurting town hall morale, workload, just everything. Please council show some grace and latitude and don’t ask about the unfinished business list. 

NEW BUSINESS

And which random phone calls and emails will we hear about this week? Stay tuned for the next episode of As Amherstburg Turns. 

BY-LAWS

By-law to appoint Treasurer and Deputy Treasurer

And, as noted above, the new Treasurer has just resigned. I took this directly from the bylaw : 

1. That Tony Haddad is hereby appointed as the Treasurer of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg. 
2. That as the Treasurer, Tony Haddad shall perform all the duties and exercise the powers of a Treasurer as defined in Section 286(1) of the Municipal Act, S.O. 2001 c.25, as amended and other duties as assigned by the municipality.
3. That the term of office of Tony Haddad as Treasurer shall commence November 22, 2021 and conclude on February 28, 2022, and he shall continue during this time at the pleasure of Council until his resignation, retirement or removal from office. 
4. That Tiffany Hong be appointed as Deputy Treasurer, who during the absence or illness of the Treasurer shall have all the duties and powers of the Treasurer. 
5. That the term of office of Tiffany Hong as Deputy Treasurer shall commence November 22, 2021 and conclude on February 28, 2022, and she shall continue during this time at the pleasure of Council until her resignation, retirement or removal from office. 

So it looks like the interim CAO will also be the Treasurer for the town for the next few months. I’m not sure who the new Deputy Treasurer is, but perhaps she will be introduced at the next council meeting. I don’t even know what to think anymore. I can’t keep track of who’s who in administration or what their job titles are. Now the CAO is also the Treasurer…..oh my….

Well, there’s no in-camera meeting scheduled for Monday night. So I guess that’s a plus. Should I stay (home) or should I go (to the meeting)? I’ll debate it this weekend. What are your thoughts about that? And…..if I go, should I bring my seat cushion out of retirement? Or do you think the meeting will be done by 8:00 and I won’t need the seat cushion? Look at me, talking in circles. It’s like I’ve spent too much time watching council meetings…..

Monday November 8th Regular Town council meeting

Well Monday night’s meeting was quite the show! It wrapped up just before 8:30 and while I was tempted to write up the blog right away, I decided not to. Considering my husband could hear me yelling at my computer downstairs (and a few laugh out louds too for real), I just didn’t have the energy when it was over. So, here I am Tuesday night, writing up the summary. 

**Deputy Mayor Meloche was absent tonight**

The Mayor asked for any declarations of pecuniary interest at the beginning of the meeting. He said that if the item regarding Centennial Park was to be discussed (and not just tabled) that he would have to declare a conflict on this item. 

CAO Haddad introduced Mr Mark Spizzirri as the acting Treasurer, as the former Treasurer, Justin Rousseau is now working for the Municipality of Lakeshore. 

DELEGATIONS

Climate Change White Paper – THRIVE Group – Richard Peddie, Dr. Lisa Porter, Dr. Cameron Proctor, Jasminka Kalajdzic 

Directors from the THRIVE group addressed council regarding climate change. Ms Kaladzic spoke first and explained that Amherstburg is feeling the impact of climate change. The average temperature is increasing and the number of days above 30 degrees is also increasing each year. There is increased flooding which is having a negative impact on agriculture, homes, businesses and the town’s infrastructure. Dr Porter spoke about the increased health risks due to climate change and the elevated rates of cancer in our area. She expressed that she was very happy that the town had declared a climate emergency, instituted an Environmental Advisory Committee and had created bylaws. However she felt that these steps were not enough. She suggested that tree planting is a great first step to help produce shade, reduce temperatures and provide habitat for animals. She presented THRIVE’s 5-year phased plan, including the ways to assess community satisfaction and gather data. Mr Linden Crane also spoke and said he hoped that council would place the health and safety of the residents as a top priority.  

For those who are interested in reading the entire White Paper, which includes the plan, here is the link : https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=4738

Councillor McArthur inquired about the mention of 6,000 trees being required ‘now’ and wondered what is “now”. Dr Proctor replied and explained that we would need trees with good viability that are at least 3 feet tall. It was explained that it would save money to reserve the trees now at the nurseries at a reasonable rate. 

Councillor Simone mentioned that the agenda had a similar request from the Environmental Advisory Committee for $4,000 to plan trees as well. 

Councillor Prue mentioned that the Environmental Advisory Committee’s request did not include an academic study. He felt that the committee would be looking to ERCA and volunteers to plant the trees. He noted that the Environmental Advisory Committee had requested $4,000 but THRIVE was requesting $18,200. He wondered if THRIVE was planning to do this on top of what the Committee was looking to do. 

One of the delegates expressed that they were willing to work with the Committee and were looking at choosing the best varieties of trees.  Councillor Prue felt that the Committee was seeking $4,000 to do this project properly, which would be taxpayer funded. He noted that the THRIVE request was for $18,200 of taxpayer funding for their project. 

The delegate (sorry, I wasn’t sure who was who when they were speaking and I don’t want to risk naming the wrong person as the speaker) said that THRIVE was looking at a long term plan but that they could also look at other funding sources. Councillor Prue wondered if THRIVE was an offshoot of or an integral party of the Amherstburg Community Foundation (ACF). The delegate explained that THRIVE was not part of the ACF. 

Mr Linden Crain spoke since he is a board member of both THRIVE and the ACF. He explained as well that THRIVE and the ACF are two separate entities. Councillor Prue felt that the two organizations go hand in glove, that it’s the same people, with the same stuff and that it sure appears that way. 

One of the delegates pointed out that three of the presenters at the meeting were University Professors. They mentioned that they may be able to leverage some grant money or apply for grants to move this project forward. 

Councillor Simone wondered if the town had funds available if council wanted to put some aside for tree planting. She also wondered if there were staff members working on this file. CAO Hadded said that administration was in the process of working on the 2022 budget and that these requests could be included as new initiatives. There was then a lot of back and forth about how money is used for planting trees….seems it’s mostly for tree planting on town owned property, for trees that have died or become too damaged etc. Tonight’s presentation was about getting trees planted on private property. 

Councillor McArthur felt that this council gets accused of doing nothing and that sometimes it’s justified and sometimes it’s not. (Yup. Have to agree with that one for sure.) He inquired about the tree planting reserve. Councillor McArthur said that THRIVE’s idea and their plan appealed to him. He liked the idea of hiring students to plant trees on residential lawns. Ms Baillargeon, Director of Parks, felt that administration could work with the group. 

Councillor Courtney then spoke. He seemed to take offense at the presentation and felt that it said that council had not taken any action. He mentioned a rain barrel plan, a green fleet plan, that council had talked about roof panels, did away with plastic straws etc and he felt it would have been nice to work with the Environmental Advisory Committee instead. He felt that climate change is a massive world problem and that we’re a small community on a stringent budget. He wondered what more could Amherstburg do. He felt that Amherstburg is a little community trying to do its part and listening to the people. One of the delegates spoke and said that she was thrilled to hear of the actions taken by council. She expressed that they would be willing to work with the Environmental Advisory committee but did not see that they had a clear action plan. She mentioned what a little town can do….as much as we possibly can! She explained that the pieces make the whole and even actions of individuals can add up. She apologized if the Committee was insulted, that was not the intent, but that a clear action plan was needed. 

Another one of the delegates spoke and said that this was a huge problem for which everyone passes the buck. She explained that the liability does not stop at the federal government’s door. She explained that she is a law professor (I believe an environmental lawyer) and that climate change is also a municipal governments responsibility. 

Councillor Courtney felt that council is fighting other levels of government and felt that we need help from upper tier levels of government. He felt that the THRIVE group should collaborate with town staff prior to their delegations. The delegate expressed that they would be happy to. 

Then Councillor Courtney felt that he had to air out a few things. He said that the words “work together” were used. He wondered whose idea it was to spur a rally Monday night. One of the delegates (not sure of her name) said it was her idea, in the sense of trying to get youth involved. She explained that climate change issues can get the youth involved, it was meant to engage people, especially the youth. 

Councillor Courtney then went on about the “optics”. He said that residents had reached out to him after THRIVE’s first and then second delegations. He felt that a rally was not a good thing, he felt it was harsh and brash. He also felt that the request was not made during a budget session and that the way the presentation was worded was condescending to council, administration and the committees. He felt that the town has experts on their committees. (Just curious but does the Environmental Committee have 3 university professors???) Councillor Courtney did not seem to like how THRIVE took the stage as a delegation. He said he was introduced to THRIVE a few months ago in a zoom meeting. He felt that their first White Paper about Open Air raised some residents’ eyebrows. He started to question the location of any of the 7 of 11 board members that own businesses in town when Councillor Simone interjected. She called a point of order and said that council was not discussing Open Air and that Councillor Courtney should stay on point. (I think I actually said “THANK YOU” out loud to my computer! She was spot on. Councillor Courtney was now talking about a different subject from a month ago…..) Mayor DiCarlo agreed and told Councillor Courtney to stay on point. 

Councillor Courtney said that he will reach out to talk to THRIVE. He felt that they have good ideas but that they should work together via the town committees. He felt that he would reach out to Richard Peddie with what he is hearing from residents. The delegate said that she did not understand what he was talking about. She said she joined THRIVE and that anybody can join. She said that they are a group of people to fuel ideas and have various areas of expertise. She offered that Councillor Courtney could give them input on verbiage in the future. (Did that just make you chuckle? Listening to it last night made me chuckle…..and typing it tonight made me chuckle again…..)

Councillor Renaud felt that he’d like to see THRIVE working with the Environmental Committee. 

Councillor McArthur said that he does not mind the White Papers. He said that delegations are limited to 5 minutes and would only last 5 minutes if council didn’t ask questions. (LOL! Touche! It’s councillors asking question after question that make these things go on and on and on….) Councillor McArthur that the White Papers are just information that should be read and considered and felt that the more information that council can receive, the better. He felt that tonight’s proposal was simple, with smart goals and it was strategic. 

Councillor McArthur then made a motion along the lines that administration would work with the $6,000 that is unused in this year’s tree budget to set this tree-planting process in motion. As well, that THRIVE work with the Environmental Committee and also that there be changes made to the tree canopy policy. Councillor Simone seconded the motion. 

Councillor Prue felt that it was too early to be doing this. He felt that the town has committees and found great people to be part of them. He said that they receive many applicants, often more than necessary. He then said that “a group from away” comes and that council gives them equal status to the committee. (My jaw hit the floor…..”a group from away”? Wow. I have no words……and qualifications??? Do the town committees have three University professors on them???? I can remember when the Environmental Committee was formed, there was a huge debate about qualifications…..administration had recommended some pretty stringent qualifications but council decided to do away with most of them and felt that “passion” was a qualification.) Councillor Prue then made a motion to defer and Councillor Courtney seconded it. 

Councillor Courtney then asked a bunch of questions of administration about the $6,000 available for trees. He wondered if we had enough “man power” or “woman power” and felt that this is a crazy world we live in where everyone is offended. (Seems he has a hard time choosing words…..I kid you not….I actually got several texts after he made these comments…..unbelievable…..) 

The deferral went to a vote : In favour : Councillors Renaud, Prue and Courtney. 

Opposed Councillors Simone and McArthur. Then Mayor DiCarlo also voted in opposition, therefore the motion failed in a 3-3 tie. 

Councillor McArthur felt that THRIVE is not a group from away. He said he was tired that people couldn’t look at the merits of an idea, rather than focus on who gave the idea or how long the person has lived in Amherstburg. (Amen! Sing it loud and sing it proud! I find it so closed-minded when weight is given to delegations based on how long they’ve lived in Amherstburg or done business in Amherstburg. It does not matter! Not one bit!!!!!)

Councillor Prue said that he was not opposed to good ideas and then cited some award he had won during his career. But he felt that we have people in town with expertise. (Three University professors? Two of whom have the “doctor” title? ) He felt that the Environmental Committee was not consulted and this is not a good way to treat them. He wanted the Committee involved. 

Councillor Courtney said that he would not support the motion and that motions can’t be made as a knee jerk reaction. He felt that he is an elected official and shouldn’t be making decisions based on a self-proclaimed lobbyist group. 

There was more back and forth and it was clarified that consulting the Environmental Committee was part of the motion. Finally, Councillor McArthur’s motion (to use some money and get some trees planted) went to a recorded vote :

In favour : Councillors McArthur,Renaud, Simone and Mayor DiCarlo

Opposed : Councillors Courtney and Prue. 

(Just a side note, it’s funny how certain members of council were up in arms about a lobbyist registry just two short years ago, yet now seem insulted that another group has formed and is delegating to council……seems odd…..)

It was now 7:03 PM. Council had turned a 5 minute delegation into an almost one hour debate….Interesting…..this the third time that THRIVE has come before council with ideas, research with sources and wanting action taken. Looks like it’s making some of the anti-change people in Amherstburg uncomfortable and they’re reaching out to certain councillors…..very interesting dynamic tonight with how certain members of council treated this delegation.

2022 Budget – Updated Timelines and Process

As I think everyone is aware, town hall is very short staffed at the moment in senior administrative positions. A few positions have been replaced with people in interim roles so far but filling seven top management positions is going to take some time. Usually the budget was presented at the beginning of November and deliberations happened in mid-November. That is not possible this year. The interim CAO, Tony Haddad and the new Treasurer, Mark Spizzirri, have prepared a report for council. 

The new time-lines are identical to the previous format, however are being pushed into January and February, rather than November and December. 

• Present & Table Budget January 10, 2022
• Public Engagement January 11-18, 2022
• Council Deliberations January 26-27, 2022
• Council Adoption of Budget February 14, 2022

However, there are a few differences being proposed…..first, it seems that the public engagement will be over a one week period via the Talk the Burg online platform. As well, it seems that a “line by line” format will be no more…..from the report : 

“In addition to the revised budget process timelines, a more streamlined budget document is planned that presents each budget centre from a high-level perspective, allowing Council to focus on the programs and services provided from a strategic point of view. This allows Administration to deliver the services based on the service levels proposed and program funding approved. Administration’s intent is to bring forward a recommended budget that maintains the Town’s existing level of service. Any budget enhancements will be identified for Council’s consideration and would add to the recommended tax levy proposed to maintain the existing service levels.”

Councillor Simone noted that the survey would be online. She wondered if paper copies of the survey would be available for those who do not have access to a computer. The Treasurer said that yes, paper copies would be available at Town Hall and at the Libro. 

Mayor DiCarlo also mentioned that paper copies could be distributed to places such as Seasons and Richmond Terrace, among others. 

Councillor Courtney questioned the “streamlined” approach from the report in regards to the presentation process for the budget. He wanted to see the line items, as has been done each year for several years. 

CAO Haddad said that that was not what was being proposed. He said that quarterly reports are available by department. He said that the budget is based on program focused budgeting and the streamlined process allows council to focus on what is delivered and how it’s delivered. It will allow council to see if the town is meeting expectations. He felt it was fair to say that they will hear from the public if they’re not satisfied with the services provided. CAO Haddad said that the focus would be on the debate and where to allocate resources, or not. He felt that there are a number of gaps in the town’s business plan, there are projects that aren’t complete and often not enough money is budgeted for the projects. He said that the capital asset plan does not have adequate funding but that council is tracking towards it. These items will have long term financial impacts. He also mentioned that the fleets are not ideal, the reserves are lacking and the plan is lacking as well. He said that this council needs to address these items. He felt that reviewing line items was not a good use of council’s time as there are critical issues that need to be addressed. He felt that the proposal will allow councill to ensure that the pillars of the Strategic Plan are being respected. He pointed out that a budget has to be addressed every year and that later council could look at adopting 2, 3 and 4 year budgets using progressive budgeting. He explained that good decisions lead to good governance. (Sooooo…..let that all sink in for a moment……seems to me he’s asking council to look at the big picture…..I’m not quite sure some members of council are capable of doing so…..going through minutia wastes precious time and energy and creates inefficiency……something that this council seems to have mastered in three short years…..unfortunately……will this be the year they can turn it all around? Be smart and efficient and look at the big picture? )

Councillor Courtney felt that he understood and he wondered if the town was running efficiently. He felt that people want to know, that there are concerns, that people want every dime accounted for and possibly a forensic audit. 

CAO Haddad said that all of the information is available. The budget starts at the base line and is then built upwards. He felt that line by line evaluation was not a good use of council’s time. He said that forensic audits are okay as long as there is an objective and that council could ask for one at any time. 

Councillor Prue noted that the survey would be available via Talk the Burg from January 11th to 18th. He noted that nowhere was there a time for people to come before council and express themselves regarding the budget. He asked why there was not an in-person meeting in advance. 

CAO Haddad felt that public consultation can take place in many forms and that it does not need to be limited to one day, or one time. The residents would have a whole week to express their opinions. 

Councillor Prue felt that people in Amherstburg like to come forth and speak at public meetings. CAO Haddad said it would be up to council to decide if they wanted a public meeting. It was not their recommendation. 

There was some back and forth about the rate of inflation but I won’t bore you with that. 

Councillor Prue felt that a number of people would be shut out without being able to delegate or speak at a public meeting. Councillor Courtney felt that council has done some town hall meetings and could do one at the Libro during the week of January 11th. 

CAO Haddad said that it was up to council but that this report and process was their recommendation. (I kind of like this guy…..cut and dry…..)

Councillor McArthur agreed with an open forum public consultation. He felt that council had learned their lesson and restructured the process. He felt that one public session with just members of council and not administration would be a good idea. He also felt that the survey was a great idea. He hoped that the budget increase would not be a big number that would scare people. 

(Side note…..today, in my Facebook memories, I found my live video from the open mic budget meeting two years ago…..it was not good…..people were yelling, there were disrespectful and even rude comments made…..it was tense…..it was awful frankly……yet here was council pushing for another open mic session……again…..)

Councillor Simone agreed and felt that council always had a public meeting. 

Councillor Courtney made a motion for an open mic session on Saturday January 15h at the Libro. 

There was some back and forth about how many people could or would attend in person. Seems a great number of people, later became 20 people……

Councillor Renaud felt that the Treasurer and CAO should be present for the public meeting to answer questions. (And that’s how things went so awry last time…..I’ve got it recorded…..town employees should not be subject to mistreatment by the public…..)

Anyway, the motion carried, there’s a tentative date of January 15th for an open mic session about the budget and that administration is to determine the logistics and the location. 

Deferred Development Charges-Block 21 Westcott Rd and Block 23 Livingstone Cres.

A few weeks ago, council went in-camera to discuss the above noted item. Well, it’s back and here’s the recommendation : 

1. The Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to enter into Development Charges Agreements for Block 21 Westcott Crescent and Block 23 Livingstone Crescent, Amherstburg, as per the Development Charges Act, Section 26.1(2)(1); and,
2. Administration BE DIRECTED to bring back an amendment to the Delegation of Powers and Duties Policy to include delegated authority to the CAO for the execution of Development Charge Agreements.

Mayor DiCarlo addressed council and said that any discussions beyond the policy would need to be done in-camera. Councillor Prue felt that a certain page number identified an individual. Mayor DiCarlo again said that anything beyond the policy would need to be discussed in-camera. Councillor Renaud made the motion as noted above but nobody seconded the motion. 

Councillor Courtney said that due to changes in the legislation that there was nothing more that council could do. He then said he would move the recommendation. 

Councillor Prue called a point of order that Councillor Courtney was making the identical motion for which there wasn’t a seconder. (I guess it would have been a lot simpler that Councillor Courtney just second the motion in the first place?? But I digress….)

Councillor Prue felt that council could support the #1 recommendation but that for #2, council could maintain the delegation of powers. 

And ultimately, it all carried. #1 was passed and #2 was changed to council having the delegation of powers. 

Centennial Park Highest and Best Use Analysis

It seems that there will be a report about the highest and best use analysis made regarding Centennial Park. For the moment, the recommendation is : 

It is recommended that: 1. The Centennial Park Highest and Best Use Analysis as prepared by Dillon Consulting BE TABLED for review prior to a presentation by Karl Tanner, MCIP RPP, from Dillon Consulting at Council’s meeting on November 22, 2021. 

Mayor DiCarlo said that if council was going to discuss the item and not just table it, that he would have to declare a conflict. Since council wanted to discuss the report, Mayor DiCarlo declared a conflict and Councillor Prue stepped in as chair of this part of the meeting. 

The Clerk read the recommendation to council. Councillor McArthur felt that this report came out of the blue and noted it was dated June 20th, 2020. He wondered why council was just seeing it now. 

CAO Haddad said he found it in a box in his office……(um, what the what?…..)

Councillor McArthur went through the timelines about various things to do with Centennial Park and he asked Ms Baillargeon if she had seen this report. She said she had not seen this report until a week ago and that she did not know that it existed until then. 

Councillor McArthur wondered if anybody else in administration had seen the report. Ms Baillargeon did not believe so. 

Councillor McArthur asked the CAO if it was unusual for a report to sit in a box. CAO Haddad said that he could not speak to why but that he agreed it was unusual. 

Councillor Courtney wondered who authorized the report. He wondered who sought this consultation. CAO Haddad said that if Councillor Courtney wanted to continue this conversation that it should be done in-camera. 

Councillor Courtney inquired about the cost of the study. CAO Haddad again recommended that council go in-camera to discuss the issue. 

Councillor Courtney made a motion to go in-camera at the end of the meeting. It carried. 

A Plan to Safely Reopen Town Facilities

Well…..it looks like in-person meetings may be coming back after twenty long months of watching them on-line! From the report : 

“Administration has revised its Pandemic Meeting Protocols for Council, Committee and Local Board Meetings to require proof of vaccination to be provided for physical attendance at public meetings for any member of the public (12 years of age or older), as indicated in Appendix B. Administration has consulted with a number of municipal colleagues who share a similar approach. The requirement to be vaccinated to physically attend the public meetings of Council and its Committee allows the Town to return to its normal occupant load capacity for those meeting spaces. 

With the Revised Pandemic Meeting Protocols in place, Administration would be supportive of Council direction to conduct in person public meetings in Council Chambers, commencing with the next regular Council meeting scheduled for November 22, 2021. Any member of the public (12 years of age or older) who chooses to attend the meeting in person will be required to be fully vaccinated. Accommodations will be provided to ensure access is available to delegations for anyone who cannot attend in person. Live Streaming of Council meetings will continue to be available.”

Councillor Prue asked that if council agreed, then people would be able to attend meetings again in-person? Chief Montone said yes but contingent on trends and that they were being cautiously optimic. People would be required to prove their vaccination status and to wear masks. However, social distancing would be eliminated. For example, for people to speak in-person at the open mic budget session, they would have to be fully vaccinated. The Chief went on to explain that normal capacity would be permitted once again, but there would be logistical challenges, for example, staff would have to check QR codes etc. 

Long story short, it looks like the next town council meeting on November 22nd will be open to the public once again! Should I go or watch from the comfort of home? I’ve had 20 months of muttering to my computer…..it’s not going to be easy to lock my inner voice back inside again. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

CAO Haddad explained that several matters had been completed and that they will drop off the list. He explained that administration is still looking at other items. Going forward, they will try to keep items current and up to date. He also said that if council asks their questions in advance of the meetings, administration can address them. (This is not a new concept by any means…..council is supposed to ask their questions in advance…..that’s how council and administration can be prepared BEFORE a council meeting in order for it to be efficient and productive…..oh wait…..)

NEW BUSINESS

This week’s grocery list, I mean new business list, included discussions about urban chickens, public consultation dates about the parks, the Fort Malden Golden Age Club and the hill at the Libro centre. 

And at 8:22 PM, council went in-camera to discuss the consultants report about Centennial Park. 

I decided to wait a day and digest the meeting before blogging about it. There were a few items that really struck me……the way that the THRIVE delegation was treated was troubling…..the report found in a box in the CAO’s office was troubling…..the open-mic session for the budget deliberations was not surprising….I just hope council can control it and keep it respectful. 

And that’s it, that’s all! If it weren’t for the massive turnover in town hall, the 2022 budget would have been presented by now and I’d be reading that preparing for the debate that would be coming in two weeks. But, well, lots of change. Now all I have to debate is if I want to attend in-person on November 22nd or if I want to sit in the comfort of my own home and talk to my computer? 

In preparation for Monday November 8th Regular town council meeting

Well, believe it or not Monday night’s agenda is only 157 pages. That SHOULD mean that the meeting should be quick and efficient…..but what should happen and what does happen seem to be two very different things. Here are the highlights of what’s to come : 

DELEGATIONS

Climate Change White Paper – THRIVE Group – Richard Peddie, Dr. Lisa Porter, Dr. Cameron Proctor, Jasminka Kalajdzic 

THRIVE, a local lobby group, will be presenting another white paper to council. This White Paper is about climate change. I read through their report and it is very, very sobering. They are calling on council to take action and follow through on their declaration of an emergency crisis. They have a few recommendations for council, but for the most part, it is driven by a tree planting program to go forward in 2022 and 2023. If you are at all concerned about our environment and climate change, please take a read through their white paper. Here’s the link : https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=4738

2022 Budget – Updated Timelines and Process

As I think everyone is aware, town hall is very short staffed at the moment in senior administrative positions. A few positions have been replaced with people in interim roles so far but filling seven top management positions is going to take some time. Usually the budget was presented at the beginning of November and deliberations happened in mid-November. That is not possible this year. The interim CAO, Tony Haddad and the new Treasurer, Mark Spizzirri, have prepared a report for council. 

The new time-lines are identical to the previous format, however are being pushed into January and February, rather than November and December. 

• Present & Table Budget January 10, 2022
• Public Engagement January 11-18, 2022
• Council Deliberations January 26-27, 2022
• Council Adoption of Budget February 14, 2022

However, there are a few differences being proposed…..first, it seems that the public engagement will be over a one week period via the Talk the Burg online platform. As well, it seems that a “line by line” format will be no more…..from the report : 

“In addition to the revised budget process timelines, a more streamlined budget document is planned that presents each budget centre from a high-level perspective, allowing Council to focus on the programs and services provided from a strategic point of view. This allows Administration to deliver the services based on the service levels proposed and program funding approved. Administration’s intent is to bring forward a recommended budget that maintains the Town’s existing level of service. Any budget enhancements will be identified for Council’s consideration and would add to the recommended tax levy proposed to maintain the existing service levels.”

I anticipate a big dramatic show about this Monday night from a few members of council. It will be interesting to see how members of council accept (or not) this new and different format. 

Golfview Subdivision Phases 4B, 4C and 4D – Acceptance of Infrastructure 

This appears to be some approvals required for infrastructure in the Golfview Subdivision. 

Deferred Development Charges-Block 21 Westcott Rd and Block 23 Livingstone Cres.

A few weeks ago, council went in-camera to discuss the above noted item. Well, it’s back and here’s the recommendation : 

1. The Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to enter into Development Charges Agreements for Block 21 Westcott Crescent and Block 23 Livingstone Crescent, Amherstburg, as per the Development Charges Act, Section 26.1(2)(1); and,
2. Administration BE DIRECTED to bring back an amendment to the Delegation of Powers and Duties Policy to include delegated authority to the CAO for the execution of Development Charge Agreements.

Various Committee Vacancies

It seems that there has been difficulty achieving quorum for the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Committee since the committee is very large. It seems that there is a vacancy for the Inclusive Community Program Advisory Steering Committee and that there is not a short list of possible candidates. Administration is seeking permission to appoint a member from the Accessibility Advisory Committee and then advertise that opening for a replacement. 

Here are the recommendations:

It is recommended that: 

1. The composition of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Committee BE REDUCED as noted in the report of October 27, 2021.
2. _____________ BE APPOINTED to the Inclusive Community Program Advisory Steering Committee in accordance with the ICP Advisory Steering Committee Terms of Reference. 
3. Administration BE DIRECTED to advertise for the vacancy to the Amherstburg Accessibility Advisory Committee as per the Boards and Committee’s Appointment Policy.

Centennial Park Highest and Best Use Analysis

It seems that there will be a report about the highest and best use analysis made regarding Centennial Park. For the moment, the recommendation is : 

It is recommended that: 1. The Centennial Park Highest and Best Use Analysis as prepared by Dillon Consulting BE TABLED for review prior to a presentation by Karl Tanner, MCIP RPP, from Dillon Consulting at Council’s meeting on November 22, 2021. 

From the presentation, this sums it up well : “The results of the analysis found that the highest and best use for Centennial Park would be a medium density residential use. An open space component should be incorporated into the design of a medium density residential development in order to increase walkability and connectivity between the future secondary school site and the neighbouring former St. Bernard’s Elementary School site. A medium density residential use would be supported by the Provincial Policy Statement, County of Essex Official Plan and the Town of Amherstburg’s Official Plan and would promote a range and mix of housing types, increase opportunities for affordable housing and promote active transportation in the Town of Amherstburg.”

Here’s a link to the presentation for those who are interested in taking a read before it is presented on November 22nd. 

https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=4766

INFORMATION REPORTS

Council has a few information reports to receive. 

12.1. 2021 Long Service Award Recognition

There are a few employees receiving long service awards. 

The Town of Amherstburg recognizes the following employees for their dedicated service:

• Kevin Jones 30 years
• Norm Beaulieu 25 years
• Dan Ouellette 15 years 
• Bart DiPaolo 10 years 
• Greg Fields 10 years
• Shirley Meloche 10 years

Congratulations!! And thank you!!

A Plan to Safely Reopen Town Facilities

Well…..it looks like in-person meetings may be coming back after twenty long months of watching them on-line! From the report : 

“Administration has revised its Pandemic Meeting Protocols for Council, Committee and Local Board Meetings to require proof of vaccination to be provided for physical attendance at public meetings for any member of the public (12 years of age or older), as indicated in Appendix B. Administration has consulted with a number of municipal colleagues who share a similar approach. The requirement to be vaccinated to physically attend the public meetings of Council and its Committee allows the Town to return to its normal occupant load capacity for those meeting spaces. 

With the Revised Pandemic Meeting Protocols in place, Administration would be supportive of Council direction to conduct in person public meetings in Council Chambers, commencing with the next regular Council meeting scheduled for November 22, 2021. Any member of the public (12 years of age or older) who chooses to attend the meeting in person will be required to be fully vaccinated. Accommodations will be 5 of 6 provided to ensure access is available to delegations for anyone who cannot attend in person. Live Streaming of Council meetings will continue to be available.”

Hmmmm…..decisions, decisions…..do I go back and attend the “live” show? Or do I continue to watch from the comfort of home? There’s some serious advantages to each option. Looks like I’ll have some thinking to do over the next two weeks. 

OTHER MINUTES

Looks like the Environmental Advisory Committee has some recommendations for council as well this meeting. Here they are:

Amherstburg Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of October 13, 2021

1. It is recommended that: The Amherstburg Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of October 13, 2021 BE RECEIVED; 
2. $4,000 BE BUDGETED in the 2022 Budget for a tree planting for Earth Day 2022, to be led by the AEAC and involving the community and possibly members of staff; and,
3. The Tree Canopy and Natural Vegetation Protection and Enhancement Policy section 6.36 BE AMENDED from “Remove damaged, decayed or dangerous trees in the urban environment as required and implement the replacement of a minimum of one for one tree so that at a minimum the quantity of trees is maintained within the municipality. The possibility of expanding coverage in the municipality is the goal of the municipality,” to “Remove damaged, decayed or dangerous trees in the urban environment as required and implement the replacement of a minimum of two for one tree with 3. consideration of municipal growth.”

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Will this be the week that some members of council accept reality that town hall is short staffed and just does not have time to prepare the 3,482 reports that they’ve requested? Tune in Monday night to As Amherstburg Turns…..

NEW BUSINESS

I wonder which random emails or phone calls will get air time on this week’s episode of As Amherstburg Turns? Could this be the week that councilllors simply dealt with any concerns efficiently and behind the scenes? 

And that’s about it folks. The agenda is not lengthy but seeing the items listed….I am anticipating that the meeting will last a while Monday night……

Have a great weekend Amherstburg! I’ll be back either Monday night or maybe Tuesday night! Either way, I’ll be back! Now I have to start thinking…..do I want to go back to in-person attendance on the 22nd or do I want to sit home and talk to my computer? Hmmmmmm